May 1, 2024
Updated May 11, 2025
19 minute read
Animal welfare is a multifaceted and increasingly important field that considers the physical and psychological well-being of animals. It encompasses a wide range of concerns, from the conditions in which animals are raised for food and fiber, to their use in research and entertainment, and the care of companion animals. At its core, animal welfare seeks to ensure that animals are treated humanely, that their needs are met, and that any suffering is minimized. This discipline draws upon scientific understanding of animal behavior and physiology, ethical considerations regarding our responsibilities towards other living beings, and the development of effective policies and practices to protect them.
js1q94|
Find a path to becoming a Animal Welfare. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/js1q94/animal
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Animal Welfare.
Takes an interdisciplinary approach to animal welfare, natural science, and philosophy to gain a comprehensive understanding of it and its major themes. It also provides an overview of a variety of perspectives and debates within the field.
Provides a foundational understanding of animal welfare, with chapters on philosophical and ethical perspectives, methods to assess welfare, and case studies in animal agriculture and research.
Provides a collection of essays on a variety of topics in animal welfare science. It is written by leading experts in the field and provides a comprehensive overview of current research and thinking.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal welfare, with chapters covering a wide range of topics from history and philosophy to ethical issues and practical applications.
Is written by scientists with knowledge and expertise in the welfare of chickens and covers species-specific needs and the latest research.
Provides a practical guide to improving the welfare of animals in meat production systems. Grandin world-renowned expert on animal welfare and her book is based on her extensive experience in the field.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/js1q94/animal